Description
1955 DKV SCHNELLASTER AUTO UNION LIGHT UTILITY VANA charming and highly unusual survivor of post-war European commercial ingenuity, this exceptionally rare 1955 DKW Schnellaster Utility Van represents an increasingly scarce opportunity to acquire a distinctive and historically significant light commercial vehicle from the formative years of continental recovery. Produced by Auto Union under its DKW marque, the Schnellaster ('fast transporter') was among the first mass-produced front-wheel-drive vans of its kind. Its innovative layout—featuring an approximately 800cc front-mounted two-stroke engine driving the front wheels—allowed for a notably low loading floor and remarkably efficient use of space, making it a practical and forward-thinking design well ahead of many of its contemporaries. This 1955 left-hand driveexample embodies all the charm and character one would expect of such a pioneering utility vehicle. Its distinctive rounded lines and purposeful stance lend it a strong visual identity, while its compact proportions belie a surprisingly capacious and versatile load area. Of particular interest is its seating configuration, with front seats complemented by an offset rear bench seat, a clever and period-correct arrangement that maximises passenger accommodation while preserving load-carrying flexibility. Notably, the vehicle is accompanied by a V5 registration document and was first registered in the United Kingdom in 1991, offering reassuring provenance and ease of future registration. Offered as a rewarding restoration project, the vehicle will require recommissioning following a period of inactivity. As such, it presents an excellent opportunity for the enthusiast or collector to return a historically significant and visually engaging classic to the road. With sympathetic restoration, this Schnellaster has the potential to become a standout example—equally suited to show display, promotional use, or inclusion within a discerning collection of early commercial vehicles. The DKW Schnellaster holds an important place in automotive history, not only as a practical workhorse of its era but also as a precursor to the modern front-wheel-drive van. Increasingly appreciated for its engineering significance and rarity, it offers a refreshing alternative to more familiar British classics. Rare, characterful, and rich in historical significance, this 1955 DKW Schnellaster Utility Van is offered with considerable scope and promise—an enticing proposition for those seeking a truly distinctive restoration project not to mention being incredibly rare as a UK registered vehicle.This vehicle is located near Lutterworth, Leicestershire LE17 from where it will need to be collected. Motorscan report and videos available on request. Viewing is by appointment, please contact the office to arrange.
